Preventing epilepsy

In many cases, the causes of epilepsy can’t be identified – but in other cases, researchers know what causes epilepsy, which means that some people can reduce their risk of developing epilepsy, or seizure disorder.

At the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Rosemarie Kobau says some cases result from head injury. So, she says:

“Safety measures, such as wearing seat belts in cars, wearing helmets when riding a bike or a motorcycle or playing competitive sports, can prevent head injuries, which in turn can prevent epilepsy.”

Kobau also says treatment of high blood pressure or infections in a pregnant woman can prevent brain damage in the developing baby that could lead to epilepsy.

Strokes are another cause of epilepsy. Not smoking, as well as controlling weight, can reduce stroke risk.

Learn more at healthfinder.gov.

HHS HealthBeat is a production of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. I’m Ira Dreyfuss.